During demonstrations on new taxation laws in Colombia, a 17-year-old girl was arrested by four policemen and taken to the prosecutor's office. Soon after her violent arrest, during which she reported that she suffered severe sexual abuse and beating from the policemen, the 17-year-old committed suicide.
Allison Melendez, was present in a demonstration against the new taxation laws before her brutal arrest. Following widespread demonstrations in the country, the new taxation plan has been frozen.
A video that has been circulating on social media, shows the girl resisting while the policemen have immobilised her arms and legs, carrying her to the station.
The police force has denied allegations, and claims that no excessive force was used against Melendez. However, a statement was released saying that the four policemen involved in the incident have been suspended since.
Aquí queda registrado cuando se llevan a Allison Melendez.
— Laura Martínez (@LauraMMoficial) May 14, 2021
No permitamos que se los lleven, un mensaje para todos los que estamos en las marchas, NO DEJEMOS QUE LA POLICÍA Y EL ESMAD SE LOS LLEVEN POR FAVOR. pic.twitter.com/IohjsyoVcn
The demonstrations have since turned into rioting, with anti-government mobilisations rising, while state repression has costed the lives of more than 40 people.
The government now faces demands for reforms that address police brutality in the country.
Nuestro corresponsal denuncia que integrante del ESMAD le siguió y empezó a hostigarlo mientras grababa (la voz que se escucha en el video). Nos retiramos del lugar ante falta de garantías de seguridad. #ParoNacional14M🚨 pic.twitter.com/NOVcV7eYhI
— Colombia Informa (@Col_Informa) May 14, 2021
[h/t: Rosa]
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